Puree soups are crafted by cooking ingredients until very tender and then blending them into a smooth, creamy texture.
The process typically begins by simmering vegetables, legumes, or other main ingredients in a flavorful liquid like stock or broth until they are completely soft. This ensures they can be easily transformed into a smooth consistency. While the initial cooking phase can vary depending on the specific recipe, the defining step of a puree soup involves blending the cooked ingredients.
The Pureeing and Finishing Steps
Once the ingredients are fully cooked, the soup is ready for the crucial puréeing stage. According to standard practice:
- Remove the soup from the heat. It's important to take the soup off the stove before blending for safety.
- Purée it in a blender. A standard blender or an immersion blender can be used. If using a standard blender, work in batches if necessary to avoid overfilling and spills.
- Return the puréed soup to the pot.
- Adjust the consistency, if necessary, by adding more liquid. You might add more stock, water, or even cream to reach your desired thickness – some prefer a thick, hearty soup, while others like it thinner.
- Return the soup to a simmer. Gently heat the soup back up after blending and adjusting.
- Hot cream may also be added now for extra creaminess. This is an optional step that adds richness to the finished soup.
Practical Tips for Pureeing
- Safety First: Be extremely cautious when blending hot liquids. Fill blenders only halfway or one-third full, secure the lid tightly (venting slightly and covering with a towel), and start at a low speed.
- Equipment: An immersion blender is convenient as it allows you to purée directly in the pot, reducing cleanup.
- Strain for Smoothness: For an exceptionally smooth texture, you can pass the puréed soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
Puree soups are versatile and can be made from a wide variety of ingredients, including squash, broccoli, tomatoes, lentils, or potatoes. The final texture is the hallmark of this soup style, achieved through careful cooking and the essential blending process.
